What do I need to cross the Canada/ US border with a child. And back to the US?

Question

Crossing to Canadian Niagra Falls and noticed that child's passport is expired. I have birth certificate and letter from parent. The info I find online is mixed. There have been a lot of changes. Anyone have up to date info. Obviously, I have to cross back to US, so info about that is good too.

Answer 1

Land/Sea Travel

Canadian Citizens

Beginning January 31, 2008, the United States will end the practice of accepting oral declarations of citizenship at the border.

Canadian citizens ages 19 and older must present documentation that proves both identity and citizenship. Identification documents must include a photo, name and date of birth. View the complete list of acceptable documents at CBP.gov.  

Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.

US-VISIT biometric procedures may apply to some Canadian citizens. Find out if US-VISIT applies to you.

http://www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec/crossingbord...

staight from the dept of homeland security the us fed. govt.

Answer 2

Child under 16 do not require a passport unless going by AIR.  If you are going by SEA or LAND then you are fine with a birth certificate for the child.  Even expired passport would be fine.

Answer 3

I believe that children under 14(?) don't need ID.  All they need is birth certificate.  That's for the US.  I don't know what Canada wants, but I'd assume it's the same.

Of course, you need to carry notarized permission from the parents if you aren't the legal guardian.

Answer 4

no passport is need until summer of 2009 (at least, it may get pushed back again).  You will need your id and birth certificate (if u dont have a passport) they will need birth certificate and if it is JUST you going and there is a father's name on the birth certificate you will need a notarized letter signed by him saying you are allowed to travel with them. (that's for ground travel) if you are flying everyone needs a passport regardless of age.

to the guy who said you NEED a passport, even your link supports that the rest of us are right, if you had read it buddy you would've noticed it said June 2009 before passports are required.

Answer 5

As of January last year you need a valid passport.  If it is just you and the child you will need a letter from the other parent.

Here's a current, up to date Canadian government site explaining the above:  http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/whti-ivho/menu-en...